'Evening of Wine and Wishes' to benefit Children's Hospital

Published: April 14, 2013 12:00AM

Wine & Wishes April 26 at Quaker Station

The eighth annual "An Evening of Wine and Wishes" is scheduled for 6 p.m. April 26 at Quaker Station in Akron.

The evening includes a tasting of fine wines, craft beer and gourmet food, as well as chef-prepared cuisine samples that are paired with the evening's beverage selections -- more than 150 premium domestic and imported wines and an assortment of craft beer.

The event will also include a silent auction where attendees may bid on an array of items, including everything from autographed sports memorabilia to gift cards.

"An Evening of Wine and Wishes" was created by Greg and Tiffany Michalec of Tallmadge. In 2004, their twins, Katie and Cory, were born prematurely at 26 weeks. They were immediately transported to Akron Children's Hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit where they stayed for 18 weeks. Katie and Cory are now healthy 9-year-olds.

"As parents, we were so appreciative and thankful for the excellent care Katie and Cory received that we chose to raise money in support of the place we called home during their initial care," Greg Michalec said.

The couple has pledged to raise $1 million for Akron Children's Hospital in 10 years. Throughout the past seven years, the event has raised $900,000; this year it is expected that the couple will meet their $1 million goal.

Tickets for the event are $150 ($125 tax deductible). Patron sponsorships are available starting at $2,500 and include 10 tickets, program recognition and signage at the event. Other sponsorship opportunities are also available. All tickets are entered into a drawing at the event for $1,000.

This year's event is made possible through donations and sponsorships from Giant Eagle, WNIR, Allen Keith Construction and Montrose Auto Group. For more information, visit akronchildrens.org/wineandwishes.